Country overview

Spain remains an important market and business partner for the UK. It is our 8th largest export market (9th for goods), with bilateral trade of goods and services amounting to over £40 billion annually.

The UK is the 5th largest investor into Spain, and since 1993 the UK has represented 21% of all FDI into Spain. The latest Business Barometer report from the British Chamber of Commerce estimates that British companies are responsible for 240,000 direct and indirect jobs in Spain. Key Spanish companies such as Ferrovial, Iberdrola and Santander all have significantoperations in the UK, and over 700 UK companies operate in Spain.

Spain is also the second most important investor in Latin America. Many Spanish companies have large distribution capabilities in the region, and collaboration with Spanish companies can help UK companies gain access to opportunities in Latin America. Spain is now investing in its research and development (R&D) capabilities and aims to spend 2% of GDP on research by 2020. The ‘Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy’ set out a vision to 2020 which focuses on increasing international collaboration and promoting more private participation and involvement in R&D.

About the guide

The main objective of this Doing Business in Spain Guide is to provide you with basic knowledge about Spain; an overview of its economy, business culture, potential opportunities and to identify the main issues associated with initial research, market entry, risk management and cultural and language issues.

We do not pretend to provide all the answers in the guide, but novice exporters in particular will find it a useful starting point. Further assistance is available from the Department for International Trade team (formerly UKTI) in Spain. Full contact details are available in this guide.

To help your business succeed in Spain we have carefully selected a variety of essential service providers as ‘Market Experts’ Click Here

The guide is available in 4 formats:

this website

a ‘free’ downloadable 'mobile device-friendly’ app – available from the iTunes App Store and Google Play store

PDF download / e-flipbook (scroll down to see the download information below)

About IOE&IT

An Introduction to the Institute of Export & International Trade

Established in 1935, the Institute of Export & International Trade is the professional membership body representing and supporting the interests of everyone involved in importing, exporting and international trade. Offering a unique range of individual and business membership benefits and a world renowned suite of qualifications and training, the Institute is the leading authority in best practice and competence for businesses trading globally.